Dec 21, 2008
Russian Riot Police Crush Free Trade Rally!
"Russian riot police have forcibly broken up a rally being held in the eastern city of Vladivostok.
"About 500 people had gathered in the city's central square to demonstrate against a new tax on imported cars.
"Witnesses said police officers kicked protesters, damaged journalists' equipment and made dozens of arrests.
"Vladivostok, one of several cities holding protests, depends heavily on car imports from Japan and critics say the tax could push prices up by 50%.
"The tax is intended to help prop up Russia's domestic car industry and prevent people buying cheaper, imported products."
"About 500 people had gathered in the city's central square to demonstrate against a new tax on imported cars.
"Witnesses said police officers kicked protesters, damaged journalists' equipment and made dozens of arrests.
"Vladivostok, one of several cities holding protests, depends heavily on car imports from Japan and critics say the tax could push prices up by 50%.
"The tax is intended to help prop up Russia's domestic car industry and prevent people buying cheaper, imported products."